In December 2012, I shared with thousands of readers my outlook on the role the Caribbean (Vincentian) Diaspora can play beyond merely sending money back home; for various reasons. Among other views, I posited that, Notwithstanding the socio-economic impact of such benevolent exchanges between family members across geographical borders, however, with many of the beneficiaries being the elderly, we must embrace the irrefutable fact that the Diaspora has significantly much more to offer than mere remittances. See article via this link...(caribbeannewsnow/headline-Commentary%3A-The-Caribbean-Diaspora-offers-more-than-remittances-13809.html) Since then I have had many more reasons to strengthen my resolve that SVG can, and will progress at a faster pace when, yes, when our government begin to treat Diaspora Affairs more seriously. It has to be an integral part of our national policies and development. It should not be a side bar. There is too much at stake for this to be. Lets use the NDPs fund raising effort on Nice Radio during the Current Affairs programme to clear relief supplies to assist people affected by the 2013 Christmas Eve Floods as a prime example. A vincy view news article says In a lively call in programme callers from across St. Vincent and the Grenadines and those from the UK, Canada, US, Tortola, Anguilla, Grenada and even Taiwan, including those pledging via email, text and social media, gave various sums, meeting and exceeded the 20K target set in contributions to be delivered in a variety of ways to the NDP. The Leader, Hon. Arnhim Eustace called again at the end of the show to express to all contributors and facilitators of the programme his profound thanks for their determination and assistance rendered to ensure that nothing will stop relief items from the Diaspora from reaching those persons who need it most in the affected communities. Against that background, what do you think will be the response when we encourage similar participation in NATIONAL projects? What will be the response when we encourage vincies abroad to invest in industries etc. or help push our buy vincy support vincy campaigns? More to come!!! Off to work. Have a productive day folks. Bless.
Posted on: Wed, 26 Feb 2014 13:13:01 +0000
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